Tips to Keep the Lawn Healthy

How much to water, what's the right mowing height and how do you test for grubs? Read on for tips on keeping your lawn healthy.

Healthy lawns should be mowed to about 3 inches high. How frequently to mow depends on how your grass grows. Frequent mowing may be needed in spring because grass tends to grow faster. In summer, however, mowing will be less frequent because the grass tends to be slower growing.

Aerate the lawn in spring or fall to improve the quality of the soil, reduce soil compaction, help the grass take up water and nutrients more efficiently and eliminate thatch build up.

To keep grass healthy, fertilize when it is actively growing. For cool season grasses and application of fertilizer with slow release nitrogen is recommended in the spring and fall. Try one of the Greenview Fairway Formula Fertilizers, they contain advanced nitrogen technology and have the highest percentage of slow release nitrogen than other brands.

In summer, test for grubs by lifting a square-foot of grass and counting the insects. Use a shovel or spade to lift the grass. If you have five or more per square foot, grub treatment may be recommended. Always read and follow label directions of any insecticide you use. If you have a Grub problem, try Lebanon Fertilizer with Merit (.3% Insecticide).

Decide whether to water the lawn or not during hot, dry spells. Lawns need about an inch of water every week to stay green. Without water, lawns will go dormant and turn brown within four to six weeks. Dormant lawns usually green up again once adequate moisture returns.